When you’re looking for a new place to live, safety and security are sure to be essential factors in the decision making process. This is especially true if you have young children. It goes without saying that the United States has a vast array of cities and towns — each with their own unique characteristics and safety profiles.
For many families who are looking to relocate in the US, finding the safest city is understandably a top priority.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the safest cities in the US. We will explore factors such as crime rates, quality of life, and community engagement to help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing your new hometown.
So, whether you’re a family with young children, a retiree looking for a peaceful place to settle down, or if you’re researching safe US vacation destinations for your upcoming travels, read on to discover the safest cities in the US.
What are the Safest Cities in the US?
Fortunately, when it comes to safety, several cities in the US stand out from the crowd; giving you plenty of diverse options to choose from. According to recent data the top 10 safest cities in the US are:
- Irvine, California
- Naperville, Illinois
- Gilbert, Arizona
- Fremont, California
- Cary, North Carolina
- Bellevue, Washington
- Murrieta, California
- Round Rock, Texas
- Thornton, Colorado
- Frisco, Texas
These cities have low crime rates, good schools, and excellent quality of life. But what exactly makes them so safe? Let’s explore some of the contributing factors.
Factors that Contribute to the Safety of Cities in the US
There are multiple elements that contribute to the overall safety of a city. While importance will vary based on individual needs and preference, here are the ones that we feel to be the most important:
Low Crime Rates:
There’s no secret here. Cities with low crime rates tend to be safer than those with high crime rates. So what factors contribute to low crime rates? Well, good policing (through consequential funding), community engagement, and effective crime prevention programs.
Good Schools:
Areas with highly rated schools tend to be safer than those with poor schools. Good schools provide young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life, reducing the likelihood of them getting involved in criminal activities. A good school also makes for happier, more satisfied kids.
Quality of Life:
If a city reports a higher quality of life for its residents, they tend to be safer. But what contributes to a higher quality of life? For the most part, this is subjective. As a general rule of thumb, however, things that contribute include: affordable housing, good and ample job opportunities, and access to quality healthcare.
Community Engagement:
And last, cities with high levels of community engagement tend to be safer than those with low levels of community engagement. When people are actively involved in their communities, they are more likely to look out for each other and to respect and appreciate their hometown. With this, they’re also more likely to report suspicious activities to the police!
FAQs about the Safest Cities in the US
What is the safest city in the US?
Currently, the safest city in the US is in Irvine, California — located in Southern Orange County. This township recently reported a violent crime rate of just 0.45 per 1,000 people. To put this in contrast, LA, Irvine’s Californian counterpart, reported 7.40 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.
Are there any affordable cities that are also safe?
Absolutely! There are a few affordable cities in the US that are safe for residents, such as Round Rock, Texas, and Thornton, Colorado.
How can I find out more about the safety of a particular city?
It’s relatively easy to research and find out information about the safety of a specific city. To do this, talk to local residents or visit the city yourself to get a feel for it. You can also try posting on Facebook community groups in towns you’re interested in. And lastly, look online for local crime rates and reports.
The Bottom Line:
Choosing a safe and secure place to live is essential. Not only is it important to be safe, it’s important to feel safe, too.
Fortunately, the US has a vast array of cities that are both safe and secure. By understanding the factors that contribute to a city’s safety profile, you can make an informed decision when choosing your next home.
To review: The factors such as low crime rates, good schools, a high quality of life, and community engagement all contribute to a city’s safety profile.
That said, it’s important to note that safety isn’t the only thing that you should keep in mind when you’re choosing a new city to live in! You’ll also want to factor in job opportunities, and any cultural amenities that are important to you. Last, keep in mind the cost of living. By taking a comprehensive approach and considering all of these factors, you can find the perfect place to call home.
Moving to a completely new town is really exciting! By doing your research and considering all of the factors that are important to you, we feel confident that you can find the perfect place to live, work, and thrive.
